Benefits Coordinator

Location: Western State Hospital, 103 Valley Center Drive, Staunton, VA 24401.

About the Role

Western State Hospital is seeking a full-time Benefits Coordinator for the Social Work Department to evaluate patients' needs and eligibility for financial benefits; assist patients with benefits applications; and educate staff and patients regarding entitlement programs.

Responsibilities

• Review the status of incoming patients to determine eligibility for SSDI and SSI benefits.
• Receive referrals for patients needing Social Security benefits.
• Prompt notification to SSA of patients whose benefits should be suspended because of specific legal codes.
• Maintain information files and Social Work Money Sheets about entitlements for WSH patients.
• Investigate questions from SSA staff, WSH social workers, DDS determiners, and Reimbursement Division representatives to obtain information necessary to complete assessments, reinstatements, applications, and appeals.
• Provide education to staff, patients, families, and CSB staff regarding financial entitlements per individual request, through PSR groups, and in Team meetings.
• Complete 10 hours of continuing education yearly (CME’s or other formal training, workshops).

Requirements

• Professional work experience with adults with serious mental illness and/or other disabilities.
• Work experience in determining clients’ eligibility for federal benefits and other government financial assistance and assisting clients with the processes necessary to access these financial services.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in a social services/human services field, bachelor’s degree, or higher.
• Experience with the use of Electronic Health Record.
• Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and other computer programs to determine eligibility.
• Veteran and veteran spouse status considered.
• Bilingual candidates preferred.

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Paid time off (sick time, family/personal time).
• Retirement with cash match.

Pay

Hiring range: $38,000 to $71,236.

About Us

Western State Hospital, part of the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), has been a leader in psychiatric treatment since 1828. WSH is a 302-bed Joint Commission/CMS-accredited psychiatric facility located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. We serve adults with serious mental health needs and are nationally recognized for our Psychosocial Rehabilitation “Learning” programs. WSH provides a modern clinical setting and a therapeutic environment for patients, supported by highly qualified staff.

Employees enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Shenandoah Valley, with nearby cities such as Charlottesville and Harrisonburg offering dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities, making Staunton an attractive place to live and work.